Friday Five: Lawyers as Presidents
Posted: February 15th, 2008
By: Zach Heller
Category: Career Corner, Friday Five, Lawline.com, Opinion Corner

On the Friday leading into Presidents’ Day Weekend, it only seems fitting to think about the oval office.  Who’s been there, who’s going to be there next year, and what you are going to be doing on Monday instead of coming into work.  And, as lawyers, it is important to note that of the 43 leaders this nation has had to date, 25 of them have been lawyers.  This is a staggering number, one that does not go unnoticed.  There are many reasons that a lawyer would make a good president, but only five that made our list below.  Enjoy!

TOP 5 REASONS LAWYERS MAKE GOOD PRESIDENTS

1. Good Negotiators.  Negotiation plays a key role in many aspects of a President’s responsibilities.  You have to be able to negotiate with lawmakers to pass certain bills, as well as deal with other world leaders to work out deals and international laws.  Negotiation is a give and take where both sides end up happy with the result, and lawyers have a lot of experience in this type of interaction.

2. Confident Speakers.  Lawyers have to be able to convey their thoughts clearly in front of a group of people.  They have to sound knowledgeable and accurate at all times.  This is important in a President because a good speaker can have a calming effect on the country.  In addition, the speeches that a President makes can have a lasting effect on the nation’s policies and affairs so it is vital to send the right message at all times.
 
3. Knowledge of the Law.  This one is pretty obvious, as lawyers of course you will have a strong knowledge of the law, especially the area you practice.  When a President has a knowledge of the law it adds to his ability to govern.  Key areas such as constitutional law, international laws, and business and corporate law will play a huge role in policy decisions of any president.  And we have seen what happens when a president takes action with no regard for the law whatsoever.

4. Problem Solving.  Lawyers have the ability to see a problem from a number of different angles.  As a trial attorney, it is key to learn all the facts of a case and choose the best course of action in order to win a case.  As president, it is important to gather all the necessary information about every decision that needs to be made and choose based on the greater good of the people.  Presidents need to be able to see all the possible solutions and outcomes, and then choose the best option.

5. Bullsh*t Ability.  Let’s face it, the President will get into a tough spot from time to time.  They all have.  Most of the time it cannot be avoided, especially because of the constant media bombardment.  It is important for a President to think and act on the fly in order to keep the nation’s confidence and support through the tougher times.

In the end, who’s to say what really makes a good president.  Law has definitely proved to be a good launching point for a Presidential Nominee.  25 men have made it from the law office to the oval office, and we may see yet another one do it this year.

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